MILAM HISTORY

Texas was named a Republic in 1836 and joined the United States in 1846 as its 28th state.

States are prominently known for their state songs and ours is “Texas Our Texas”.

A contest to select a state song was held in 1929. William J. Marsh of Fort Worth wrote music and Gladys Wright Yoakum wrote the lyrics of the chosen song.

It was adopted by the 41st Legislature. The only change that has been made was in 1959 modifying the line “largest and grandest” to “boldest and grandest” when Alaska became the 50th state. “ Texas Our Texas” has three verses. However, most performances limit their renditions to the first verse followed by the chorus which is usually repeated twice as the song was written.

As we celebrate Texas’ 175th Birthday, it is good to ref lect how our history is changing. On occasion we honor our state by reciting the pledge and singing the state song:

Texas Our Texas all hail the mighty state.

Texas Our Texas! So wonderful so great.

Boldest and grandest, withstanding every test.

Oh, empire wide and glorious you stand supremely blest.

God bless you Texas and keep you brave and strong,

That you may grow in power and worth throughout the ages long.

In 1933 Texas L egislat ure passed a law establishing rules for a pledge:

That pledge originally was:

Honor the Texas Flag of 1936:

I pledge allegiance to thee Texas, one and indivisible.

In 1951 Sen. Searcy Bracewell introduced a bill to delete 1936 from the pledge. This did not happen until 1965.

In 2007, the Texas Pledge was amended with the addition of “one state under God:”

Honor the Texas Flag.

I pledge allegiance to thee Texas, one State under God, One and indivisible.

Texas, a future as big as the State! Is that a famous quote? If not it should be.